This oil by Carl Ahrens measures 18 x 24 inches and was painted between 1908 and 1911, likely in Toronto or Leith, Ontario. It was originally owned by General Malcolm S. Mercer and was exhibited in the Public Reference Library (Toronto) in October of 1911. At Mercer's death in 1916, the painting passed to his brother, Frederick. In 1928 it was auctioned by the Jenkins Galleries of Toronto. It was lot # 457 and sold for $250.
Interestingly enough, this painting appears to have gone back into Mercer hands. In 1935 Mrs. Frederick Mercer had an exhibition and sale of paintings from her late husband's collection. This painting was listed among them. There was no price indicated and no confirmation a sale actually took place.
The painting appeared at the 1937 Memorial Exhibition of Selected Works by Carl Ahrens, held at Mellors Galleries in Toronto. It was priced at $300.
The Ford
